Wife Doting Addiction：My Abducted Tsundere Husband - Chapter 109: Killer Behind the Scenes

Chapter 109: Killer Behind the Scenes

Translator: Nyoi-Bo Studio  Editor: Nyoi-Bo Studio

At that moment, Su Jiu’s room was already in flames. She knew that her room had caught fire, and even felt a scalding sensation from the heat. However, she could not seem to open her eyes and felt as if there was not an ounce of energy in her body.

Her finger caught fire, prompting her to forcefully roll herself down the mattress.

The yard outside her room was completely silent. The windows were tightly shut, and the smoke could not escape. No one realized that a fire had broken out.

Smoke engulfed the entire room and the mattress crackled as it burnt. The flames spread rapidly and soon, even the windows caught fire. The carved wooden windows were engulfed in flames, resulting in the smoke rising by several feet.

Finally, someone realized there was a fire after noticing fumes emerging from the Perched Phoenix Pavilion. The person exclaimed in bewilderment, “Fire! Fire! Help!”

Having heard the yelling, almost half of the people rushed to the pavilion.

The entire area was engulfed in smoke. The servants ran around and clamored in panic.

Some of them went to fetch water, while the others attempted to put out the fire. The scene was extremely chaotic.

Amidst the chaos, a slender hand reached out to remove the lens from the begonia tree. The person swiftly turned around right after removing it, quickly disappearing into the sea of men.

The nanny walked out from the kitchen, and her expression changed drastically upon realizing that it was Su Jiu’s room that was on fire. She hurriedly scurried over and asked, “The Mistress! Is she in the room?”

Dong Xue replied, “Don’t panic. The Young Mistress had gone out this morning. She is probably not back yet. If she were to be in the room, she would have screamed for help.”

Qiu Kui stood by the side and glanced at Dong Xue after she spoke. She pursed her lips but did not say anything.

Dong Xue peered at her and ordered, “Quick, go fetch some water to put out the fire! What are you standing here for?”

Qiu Kui raised her brows and went on to fetch some water.

The nanny was still horrified. She paced back and forth and muttered, “Why do I still feel so anxious? No, I have to go in to take a look!”

She was prepared to sprint into Su Jiu’s room but Dong Xue held her back. “Nanny, you can’t go in. If you get trapped inside and Young Mistress Ji finds out, she’ll barge in to save you. And in the end, both of you will get hurt for nothing!”

The nanny looked pale and uneasy. She answered frantically, “Yes, you are right!”

Uncle Yu heard noises and rushed over to the room, only to realize there had been a fire. His usually calm and solemn expression turned into anxiety. He grabbed a male servant who was carrying a bucket of water and asked, “Is there anyone in the room?”

The male servant’s face was black, covered by the fumes. He shook his head anxiously. “No, nobody cried for help!”

Uncle Yu released him. He frowned and stepped forward to check.

At this moment, Chang Huan appeared from the crowd. He saw the blazing flames that were burning from the room and his legs instantly became weak, nearly collapsing to the ground. He conveniently took a bucket of water from someone beside him and poured it on himself. Just like that, he bolted forward and rushed towards the room.

The nanny was baffled. She cried out, “Chang Huan? Chang Huan!”

Chang Huan did not seem to hear the nanny. He kicked the wooden door open and darted in without any hesitation.

The room was filled with smoke and the fire continued to burn vehemently. Chang Huan’s mind was blank as he shouted in panic, “Boss! Boss! Where are you?”

His clothes had already caught fire. Yet, he did not seem to feel anything as he continued to search for Su Jiu frenetically.

“Boss, Boss!”

There was no one on the bed, nor were there anyone on the mattress. The entire room was swallowed in flames. Chang Huan’s eyes reddened as he cried out for Su Jiu.

“Bloop!” A faint sound of water could be heard, followed by a weak voice. “Chang Huan, I’m here!”

Chang Huan was relieved. He rushed forward and pushed the folding screen away, only to see a barrel that was used for bathing. Su Jiu emerged from the water, revealing her head. She choked on the smoke and coughed as she clung onto the side of the barrel.

Chang Huan bolted towards Su Jiu and embraced her in his arms. He cried out, “Boss, you scared me to death!”

Su Jiu looked up and exclaimed in shock, “Chang Huan, your body is on fire!”

As she called out, she splashed water from the barrel onto Chang Huan’s body.

Chang Huan half-knelt on the ground beside the barrel and held onto Su Jiu’s head. His eyes were filled with tears as he said, “It’s fine, as long as you’re alright!”

Su Jiu leaned weakly against his shoulders and replied, “It’s ok, let’s not talk about this anymore. If we continue staying here, the beam is going to collapse. Bring me out, I have no strength at all!”

Chang Huan extended both hands to carry Su Jiu out. He asked, “Boss, what’s wrong with you?”

“I was set up!” Su Jiu uttered coldly.

After immersing herself in cold water for some time, her mind was much clearer, unlike the beginning where she could not utter a word. However, her entire body still felt very weak.

“I’ll bring you out!” Chang Huan said as he attempted to carry Su Jiu on his back and dashed out of the door.

Just then, Ji Yuxian entered the Perched Phoenix Pavilion.

He noticed the blazing fire and his expression instantly changed. There was a slight quiver in his voice as he asked, “Where’s Young Mistress Ji?”

Uncle Yu frowned. He initially thought that Su Jiu was not in the room. However, it had been a while since Chang Huan rushed inside, and he assumed that something was not right.

Ji Yuxian’s face turned pale. His phoenix-like eyes revealed his panicked state of mind, and he darted into the fire.

Jin Feng speedily rushed forward and blocked him. He exclaimed, “Young Master, let me go instead!”

“Move away!” Ji Yuxian blurted as he waved his hands at Jin Feng. It felt as if his boundaries had been pushed as he shoved Jin Feng ten feet away, before hurling forward into the fire.

Stunned, Jin Feng cried out, “Young Master Ji!”

The heat was searing as Ji Yuxian approached the fire. Before he had the chance to enter, he saw a figure darting out, eventually leaping onto the ground.

Everyone was appalled.

“Su Jiu!” Ji Yuxian shouted in worry. His mind blanked out momentarily as he instinctively rushed forward to hug her.

Chang Huan’s hair had been charred and his body was still on fire. However, he was still embracing Su Jiu when they rolled onto the ground after their successful escape, resembling an animal protecting its child. Chang Huan watched Ji Yuxian vigilantly and grimly as he approached closer.

Compared to Chang Huan’s terrible state, Su Jiu seemed to be in better condition. She was completely soaked and drenched with water, trembling incessantly in Chang Huan’s arms. One moment she was in blistering heat, and now she was shivering.

The wind was piercing in the early spring.

Ji Yuxian stared at Su Jiu. He had previously felt his blood freeze, but now he felt as if it could gradually flow again. He half-knelt onto the ground and frowned as he called out, “Su Jiu?”

Jin Feng and Uncle Yu surrounded them and poured water over Chang Huan to put out the fire.

Chang Huan was still in a state of panic as he held onto Su Jiu tightly and said in a hoarse voice, “Don’t touch our boss!”

The nanny ran forward and cried, “Young Mistress, why were you in the room? How are you feeling now?”

Su Jiu’s teeth were chattering as she replied, “I’m… I’m freezing to death!”

The nanny took out a silk handkerchief and used it to wipe the water off Su Jiu’s face. Her hands were shaking immensely, either out of fear or anxiety.

Ji Yuxian looked towards Chang Huan and said in a low voice, “Let me handle her. There seems to be something wrong with her, and you need to treat your wounds quickly. Don’t worry, I won’t hurt her!”

Chang Huan looked directly at Ji Yuxian. His heart that was previously beating violently started to gradually relax. His mind had regained some clarity and he slowly nodded his head, handing Su Jiu over to Ji Yuxian.

Ji Yuxian immediately stretched his hands out to carry Su Jiu. He wrapped her with his cloak and strode out as he instructed, “Uncle Yu, bring Chang Huan to the doctor.” Uncle Yu frowned as he glanced at Chang Huan. How did Young Mistress Ji’s servant girl turn into a male?

Seeing that Ji Yuxian had already known about this matter, Uncle Yu did not ask any further. He acknowledged Ji Yuxian’s instructions and ordered people to bring Chang Huan to see Doctor Gu.

The nanny and Jin Feng instantly followed Ji Yuxian.

In the yard, Dong Xue stood behind a pillar in the corridor. She frowned as she quietly watched Ji Yuxian leaving with Su Jiu. She clutched onto the lens so tightly that her palms began to hurt.

“Ji Yuxian…” Su Jiu whispered his name in his arms.

“Yes?” Ji Yuxian replied. His voice was hoarse as if something had obstructed his throat.

“I was drugged!” Su Jiu muttered weakly.

Ji Yuxian nodded and asked, “How did the fire start?”

Su Jiu shook her head. “I don’t know. I fell asleep and the room was on fire when I woke up. I couldn’t move and that was when I knew I was drugged.”

“Ok, I got it. Get some sleep first and you’ll be fine after you wake up!” Ji Yuxian said with a soft and gentle voice as he lowered his head to kiss Su Jiu’s brows.

“What about Chang Huan?” Su Jiu asked, with her eyes half-closed.

“He wasn’t badly injured. He only suffered from minor burns and is headed to Doctor Gu for treatment!”

Su Jiu felt a sense of relief and fell into a deep sleep soon after.

Upon entering the main yard, the nanny and Jin Feng were ordered by Ji Yuxian to guard the external area. Su Jiu was later carried into the bedroom by himself.

Su Jiu’s clothes were drenched and her entire body was cold. Ji Yuxian removed her clothes and brought her into the bathroom to soak in hot water. He carried her in his arms while being immersed in the water, and about 30 minutes later, the coldness in her body had already subsided. Ji Yuxian got up, wrapped her delicate body with a towel, and finally placed her on the bed.

When Su Jiu was in a deep sleep, Ji Yuxian removed a porcelain bottle from the bookshelf. He poured out a black elixir, placed it between his lips and fed it to Su Jiu.

Ji Yuxian sat by the bed for a while and got up to leave soon after.

“Young Master, how is the Young Mistress?” The nanny asked Ji Yuxian as soon as she saw him at the door. She had been waiting outside anxiously.

“She has already fallen asleep. I have also checked her body and there are no injuries.” Ji Yuxian replied faintly.

“That’s a relief, thank the Gods!” The nanny put her hands together to pray.

Ji Yuxian glanced at her with his deep eyes and said,

“From today onwards, the Young Mistress will be moving to the main yard. Nanny, you should come over to serve us too!”

“Yes, yes! I, as a slave, will do my best to serve you well!” The nanny said as she hurriedly bowed her head down.

At that moment, Jin Feng had returned. He nodded his head at the sight of Ji Yuxian.

Ji Yuxian understood Jin Feng’s gesture and turned around to look at the nanny. “Go in and look after Su Jiu. Don’t leave her.”

“Yes!” The nanny responded. She was concerned about Su Jiu’s well-being, and eagerly pushed the door open to enter the bedroom.

Both Ji Yuxian and Jin Feng went the other direction and headed to the study.

Uncle Yu was also inside. He immediately stood by the side respectfully and said, “Young Master Ji, the fire at the Perched Phoenix Pavilion has already been extinguished. Young Mistress Ji’s room and the flower hall next to it have been completely burnt down.”

“What have you discovered?” Ji Yuxian asked anxiously, before reaching the console table.

Jin Feng spoke first. “I’ve ordered a few bodyguards who are known to be quite stealthy. They have sneakily searched every room in the manor and found this in Mrs. Qin’s bathroom.”

Jin Feng placed two paper bags on the console as he spoke.

Ji Yuxian opened the first one and sniffed it. It was the drug that caused Su Jiu’s drowsiness.

The other paper bag was slightly larger. He opened it and saw light yellow powder. He squinted his eyes slightly, took a pinch of it and added it to hot water. A fizz could be heard as bubbles effervesced, and white smoke emitted.

It was white phosphorus!

Uncle Yu stepped forward and added, “The old slave had also investigated. Today, when Young Mistress Ji returned to the manor, the newly promoted housekeeper of the laundry wing delivered a cloak to her. She later entered her room with it.”

If the cloak had been soaked in white phosphorus, the cloak would capture it and only ignite at a certain temperature after it was dry.

“The slaves have also questioned the servants at the Perched Phoenix Pavilion. They were weeding in the garden at that time, but some of them claimed to have seen light flashing from the Young Mistress’s bedroom window.”

Jin Feng continued, “The subordinates saw the lens from a broken lamp in the servant girl, Dong Xue’s room. However, it was discovered that her lamp was broken as it was missing a piece.”

At this point, they have already managed to identify the cause of the fire.

The cloak contained white phosphorus and sleeping pills. The heat from outside the window caused the cloak to catch fire and as it slowly burnt, the drug emanated into the air, causing Su Jiu to be intoxicated in her sleep.

What a well laid-out plan!

Besides, at that time, almost everyone thought that Su Jiu was not in the room. If not for Chang Huan’s sudden return and Su Jiu’s attempt to hide in the bath barrel, she could have been burnt to death without anyone even realizing it.

There was no evidence to investigate the cause of the fire, especially since the cloak had already been burnt completely.

Mrs. Qin, Dong Xue…

Previously, both of them had been punished because of Su Jiu, but it seemed unreasonable for them to go to such extents and cause such harm to Su Jiu.

Ji Yuxian’s eyes were filled with bitter coldness as he said faintly, “Call Xie Ying over!”

Jin Feng was about to respond when Uncle Yu abruptly commented, “Young Master, we do have evidence, but what if Mrs. Qin and Dong Xue refuse to admit that all these were the Second Mistress’s doing? Up till this point, there isn’t any evidence that directly links the Second Mistress to this incident!”

“Then I want her dead right away!” Ji Yuxian replied with squinting eyes, his cold gaze revealing an intention to kill.

“Young Master, we can’t be sure if Mrs. Qin will confess that it was the Second Mistress’s doing. Even if she confesses and we report it to the government, the officials can’t sentence the Second Mistress to death, since the Young Mistress is fine now. At most, she will be sent back to her hometown, but Mrs. Qin is after all from the Xie family and Master Xie had just been promoted to serve for the Ministry of Household. So if he were to resent us for this, it won’t bring any good to the Ji Manor and Young Mistress Ji!”

Uncle Yu’s intentions were obvious. If they call Xie Ying over and she confesses, she would be dismissed and their relationship with the Xie Manor would be undermined. If she does not confess and Ji Yuxian kills her, it would cause suspicion to the Xie family.

Therefore, Xie Ying must not be touched!

Ji Yuxian’s eyes were dark, his expression gloomy. He gradually turned to look out of the window.

He was not afraid of offending the Xie family. He wondered what Xie Ying’s father had done over the years to earn his position as Minister. Although Ji Yuxian had the means to handle the matter, what Uncle Yu said was right too. He could not involve Su Jiu in this situation. If the Xie family could not get back at Ji Yuxian himself, they would target Su Jiu instead, and Ji Yuxian could not allow Su Jiu’s previous identity to be disclosed.

It was just that the resentment in him was overwhelming. How could he forget about Xie Ying and let go of this matter?

After some time, he spoke indifferently, “Ok, I understand, but Mrs. Qin and Dong Xue can’t stay any longer!”

“Yes!” Jin Feng nodded. “I’ll handle it as requested!”

The fire had just been extinguished. Even the Second Mistress was startled by the entire incident. Uncle Yu still had a lot to settle, so he retreated with Jin Feng.

Ji Yuxian sat in front of the windows, watching the thick smoke that had yet to clear up. His phoenix-like eyes glimmered, seemingly covered with a layer of mist, swallowing his eyes in entirety.

Some time passed and Ji Yuxian abruptly called out, “Servants!”

They instantly replied, “What requests do you have, Young Master?”

“Call the Third Mistress over!”

“Yes!”

About ten minutes later, Ren Zhi’er entered the study, looking seemingly uneasy.

She left the study after some time, her expression a lot calmer. Her half-drooping eyes revealed a hint of joy as she hurriedly shuffled towards the main courtyard.

In Su Jiu’s bedroom, the nanny sat beside her bed and looked at Su Jiu from time to time. She felt a little scared, and at the same time, thankful.

Ji Yuxian entered the bedroom and muttered softly, “The Young Mistress is probably going to wake up soon. She previously caught a cold. Could you make some ginger soup for her to drink later?”

The nanny stood up immediately. “Yes, I’ll prepare for her right away!”

It was already in the evening and the room turned slightly darker. Su Jiu lied on her bed and her delicate face was rosy. She had a very peaceful nap.

Ji Yuxian removed his robe and lied on her bed, holding onto her tightly. With his forehead against her temples, he shut his eyes and gently let out a sigh. He murmured.

“Su Jiu, being the Young Mistress of the Ji Manor is indeed very dangerous. There are so many things to look out for, but I will soon get rid of all these dangers for you. So stay with me, ok?”

Perhaps Su Jiu heard Ji Yuxian’s voice. She slowly opened her partially misty eyes, gazing at him who was only inches away from her. “Ji Yuxian…” she called out.

“Yes!” He replied with a low-spirited laugh, extending his hands to caress Su Jiu’s eyebrows. “You’re awake?”

Su Jiu slowly regained consciousness and her eyes gradually became cold and icy. She abruptly stood up.

There was someone who intended to burn her alive!

She clenched her fist with aggression as she asked coldly, “Who wanted to kill me?”

In the Ji Manor, the concubines could be suspects.

Ji Yuxian got up and hugged Su Jiu from behind. He muttered in a low voice, “Su Jiu, do you trust me?”

Su Jiu hesitated for a moment before nodding subtly. “I do!”

“Alright, listen to me. For now, treat it as if an accidental fire had broken out. I will avenge you. Do you believe in me?” Ji Yuxian asked as he grabbed both of Su Jiu’s arms, gradually turning her body around, lifting his phoenix-like eyes and looking directly into hers.

Su Jiu raised her brows at him. “Do you know who the perpetrator is?”

Ji Yuxian nodded. “I know!”

“I’ll kill her then!” Su Jiu said, her eyes freezing with coldness.

“How do you kill that person when you have no proof?” Ji Yuxian asked her, lowering his head against Su Jiu’s forehead. He continued gently, “I’m still going to ask you the same thing. I will avenge you, do you believe in me?”

Ji Yuxian’s sturdy, dark eyes were reflected in Su Jiu’s.

The reflection seemed to be oblique, creating an appealing yet baffling image. Su Jiu nodded her head slowly. “I believe in you!”

Ji Yuxian’s lips immediately broke out into a charming smile. He stretched his arms to embrace her as he said, “Stay here in the future. Let me look after you always, so that no one will dare to come up with any awful schemes against you!”

Su Jiu sighed. “A gang leader like me will have to be constantly protected by others now!”

Ji Yuxian chuckled and kissed her lips. “I’m more than willing to be a personal bodyguard for my wife!”

Three rooms in the Perched Phoenix Pavilion had been completely burnt down and had to be rehabilitated. Mrs. Qin and the nanny moved to the main courtyard, along with the two servant girls Mo Yu and Ming Fu, to take care of Su Jiu.

The other four servant girls, Chun Liu, Xia He, Qiu Kui, and Dong Xue, remained at the Perched Phoenix Pavilion.

After dinner, Su Jiu regained her energy and headed to Doctor Gu’s to visit Chang Huan.

Doctor Gu stayed in the front yard, which was a small yard on its own. They visited him once when Chang Huan was poisoned, but it was an urgent trip, so she only realized that his yard had all kinds of herbs. There were dozens of jars and tanks of various sizes, and she did not know what they were for.

Once she entered the yard, she could hear Chang Huan’s deafening shrieks.

“Old man, where have you pierced me with the needle? Why can’t I move my thighs?”

“What old man? I’m a doctor! You don’t know how to respect elders at all!” Doctor Gu berated.

“Quickly treat my legs, I want to see my boss!” Chang Huan shouted aggressively.

“She is fine, and your injury is much worse than hers. Look here, it has been burnt to the point that it looks like a suckling pig. Luckily, you have me as your doctor. This ointment for burns is specially made by me. It is a secret recipe that relieves pain quickly and also removes scars.” Doctor Gu said, promoting his ointment.

Chang Huan suddenly panicked as he asked, “Hey, old man, what are you trying to feed me again?”

“This is a new drug that I’ve invented. I’ve always wanted to find someone to test on and, conveniently, that you’re here!”

“I’m not eating that! Ew, I’m not! Boss, save me!” Chang Huan hollered as he struggled.

“Be good, just eat one. I’ve saved your life twice, so repay me by trying this medicine. Come, open your mouth!”

“No!”

…

Su Jiu chuckled lightly as she stood outside the door. She raised her legs and kicked the door open. With one of them lying down and the other one standing, both of them turned to look at her simultaneously.

Chang Huan was so delighted that tears formed in his eyes as he exclaimed, “Boss, you are alright!”

“You’re finally here to save me!”

“Quick, take me away from this lunatic!”

Su Jiu was clutching a jar of wine in her hands, leaning against the door frame. She laughed. “If he dares to do anything to you, I will smash every one of those bottles and jars here, and yank out every single strand of hair from his beard!”

Doctor Gu’s house was filled with bottles of herbs everywhere. The smell of herbs could be detected from a distance. They did not smell bad. Instead, it was a pleasant smell that calms people.

Doctor Gu blew at his beard and widened his eyes. He pointed at both Su Jiu and Chang Huan, exclaiming, “You, you are all ungrateful little ones!”

Su Jiu pursed her lips and smiled playfully. “Thank you so much for treating Chang Huan. I heard from Ji Yuxian that you like drinking alcohol, so I purposely came over to pass this to you, to show my appreciation!”

As she spoke, she casually tossed the jar of wine over to him.

The wine jar whizzed through the air as it followed the direction of the wind. Its force was startling, but Doctor Gu managed to catch it in his arms in a relaxed manner. He opened the jar to take a sniff of it, and his eyes glistened instantly as he commented, “This is the pear flower wine that belonged to Ji Yuxian! That’s good. If he’s willing to give this to you, it shows that he really does dote on you!”

After he finished speaking, he waved his arms at Chang Huan’s legs, carried the jar, and headed towards his home. He reminded them, “Remember to shut the door when you leave!”

Chang Huan’s legs relaxed and he felt as if he could move instantly. He got down the bed and hugged her. “Boss!”

Chang Huan’s body suffered from several burns, but they had all been treated with medicine and were all bandaged. His hair was also burnt by the fire, and he had to cut it short and tie it in a ponytail. This, in turn, made him look even more handsome and attractive.

“I’m alright! What about you? Does it still hurt?” Su Jiu asked as she carefully grazed over the burn mark on his wrist.

Chang Huan shook his head. “That old man is quite skilled. It doesn’t hurt anymore after using his medicine.”

Soon, his face turned cold as he asked, “Boss, how did the fire break out?”

Su Jiu knew that if she were to tell Chang Huan, he would worry for nothing and possibly act recklessly in an uncontrolled manner, eventually alerting the enemy. Since Ji Yuxian had already said that he would avenge for her and asked her not to make any brash decisions, she should just trust him!

“I fell asleep while looking at the accounts book. It probably fell into the brazier and caught fire.” Su Jiu replied casually.

“Oh!” Chang Huan nodded as he added, “It’s better if I come back. Such a terrible thing happened the moment I wasn’t with you!”

“It’s alright, I’m temporarily moving to the Cloud Pavilion. The nanny and other servants will be there to serve me, so such things won’t happen again!”

When Chang Huan heard that Su Jiu was moving in with Ji Yuxian, he frowned slightly. However, he knew that she would be safer around Ji Yuxian, so he nodded and said,

“Grandpa An had returned to Xu Province. Hu Dapao and Ah Shu are also currently at the bodyguard agency. I’ll be at the restaurant so you’ll have to be here alone. Be careful!”

Even though Su Jiu claimed that it was an accident, Chang Huan still felt uneasy and worried.

Su Jiu smiled indifferently. “Don’t worry!”

After this incident, she had indeed learned her lesson. She finally understood what Ji Yuxian had told her previously – the women in the rear court were wicked. They were even more dangerous than those mountain bandits with sharp knives and weapons. She told herself that she would never be that careless again.

Chang Huan and Su Jiu exchanged a few words as they walked out of Doctor Gu’s courtyard. Chang Huan returned to the restaurant, while Su Jiu went back to the main courtyard to sleep.

In the night, in the Jinlan Pavilion, the Second Mistress had just finished her dinner and was drinking tea in the pavilion. Yuan’er sat next to her, carefully massaging her thighs.

The Second Mistress removed her make-up and let her hair down, casually putting on a robe. She raised her thin eyebrows and snickered. “The fire in the Perched Phoenix Pavilion was so intense and unusual. Yet, no one went to investigate the matter after the fire had been put out.”

Yuan’er replied, “It’s quite obvious that Young Mistress Ji was the target. Otherwise, what are the chances of the fire breaking out in her room?”

“Who do you think it was?” The Second Mistress glanced at her as she asked.

Yuan’er shook her head. “I wouldn’t dare to make false accusations.”

“There’s only the both of us here. It’s alright!” The Second Mistress replied.

Yuan’er pondered for a moment and answered, “Who else could it be other than those few mistresses?”

The Second Mistress showed a playful smile on her lips. “Even you have guessed it. I’m sure Ji Yuxian is aware of who it was too, but it’s so quiet in the Cloud Pavilion. It’s as if they haven’t sent anyone out to investigate the matter.”

“I think there aren’t many ways to investigate either. Even if there was evidence, it would have been burnt away by the fire. And what more can be done after suspecting anyone?” Yuan’er replied.

“True!” The Second Mistress nodded her head faintly and let out a small sigh. “Speaking of which, Young Mistress Ji’s life is quite good. She accidentally let one of the servant girls drink the living stone, yet she managed to survive the fire unscathed.”

Yuan’er froze and blurted out, “Could Young Mistress Ji be sent by the Gods?”

The Second Mistress’s face sank instantly. She shot a glance at her and commented, “God? Hmph! Do you want to worship her now?

Yuan’er panicked and immediately lowered her head. She laughed bitterly. “I was just kidding!”

The Second Mistress snorted coldly and said in a soft voice, “Let them make all the fuss. I’m not going to care about these things. What I’m most concerned about now is the imperial examination that Ze’er is going to take. As long as our Ze’er gets into high school, I can finally feel relieved after all these 20 years!”

“Yes, the Second Young Master was reincarnated and will achieve success!” Yuan’er quickly added to earn the likes of the Second Mistress.

The Second Mistress’s expression eased slightly. She turned her head a little and shut her eyes.

Yuan’er did not dare to speak further. She continued to serve her with more dedication.

Later in the night, Ren Zhi’er brought her servant girl to the Lotus Pavilion to learn embroidery.

Xie Ying was embroidering a purse that had a mandarin duck on it. Her expression was somber, seemingly not in a good mood.

Ren Zhi’er pulled the curtains and smiled gently. “I’m here to visit you on a joyous occasion!”

Xie Ying peered at her and sneered. “Where does the joy come from?”

Ren Zhi’er noticed that there was only Xie Ying’s confidant, Shao Yao, with them, so she snickered softly and said, “Didn’t you know that something very serious happened in the manor? The Perched Phoenix Pavilion had caught fire!”

As soon as Xie Ying heard about it, her face sank further. “So what if there was a fire? Isn’t Su Yuejiu still alive and well? Plus I heard that the Master wants her to live in the Cloud Pavilion now. So she still gained something out of this misfortune!”

Ren Zhi’er laughed awkwardly and said, “Anyway, it’s still good to give Su Yuejiu a scare!”

Xie Ying drooped her head. She furiously pierced the needle through the silk cloth that was in her hands, her eyes ruthless. She had already bribed off Dong Xue and even waited for a suitable time to execute her plan. Yet, how was Su Yuejiu not burnt to death?

She thought that she was really lucky that the cloak had been burnt. No one could find out how the fire started and nothing could lead back to her.

Ren Zhi’er leaned towards Xie Ying and whispered, “Sister, Su Yuejiu has moved to the Cloud Pavilion, spending day and night with the Young Master and even receiving all the love from him. I’m afraid that there wouldn’t be any chance for us left in the future!”

Xie Ying’s eyebrows shot up as she glanced at Ren Zhi’er. Her lips moved sideways as she asked “Why? Are you afraid now?”

“Of course not! But…” Ren Zhi’er’s eyes flashed. She frowned and continued, “I’m just worried for you. I’m afraid that Su Yuejiu will become smugger after having Ji Yuxian dote on her so much. By then, the first person that she’d be up against could be you!”

Xie Ying sneered. “I would want to see what she would do to me.”

“What I meant was, rather than waiting for Su Yuejiu to contend against us, why not think of a way to win the Young Master’s heart?” Ren Zhi’er muttered faintly.

“How do I do that?” Xie Ying grumbled. “I don’t even know how long it has been since the Young Master visited me!”

Previously, before Su Yuejiu was married into the family, Ji Yuxian would invite Xie Ying to listen to music, drink wine, or even bring her on a cruise for leisure. However, now that Su Yuejiu was here, she was completely left in the lurch.

“Sister, you’re so muddled! If the Young Master doesn’t come, can’t you take the initiative instead?” Ren Zhi’er asked her with blinking eyes as if she was calculating something.

“How do I enter? Not everyone can enter the Cloud Pavilion.”

“Yes, I know not everyone can enter. But if you were to say that you are looking for the Young Master, could the guards stop you from entering? As long as the Young Master sees you, everything will be easy. You are so beautiful, how could he not like you?”

Xie Ying could not help but be wavered by her suggestion. “Is this possible?”

“Of course!” Ren Zhi’er replied confidently.

“If that’s the case… I’ll try tomorrow!” Xie Ying’s eyes flickered, brimming with anticipation.

“There’s one more thing that I’ve inquired about. Su Yuejiu is usually in the manor in the morning. After lunch, she will be out, and that’s when the Young Master rests in the manor. You can take this opportunity to visit him!”

“Thank you so much, little sister. If I were to succeed this time, I’ll never forget how you’ve helped me!” Xie Ying said agitatedly.

“Yes, I hope you’ll receive the love and attention of the Young Master!” Ren Zhi’er spoke respectfully as she lowered her head. Her eyes were dull, even though there was a slight glimmer in her eyes.

The next day, Su Jiu learned to write in the morning and visited Ji Yuxian to collect a jar of wine from him in the afternoon. Later, she went to find Doctor Gu to exchange the wine for his miraculous medicine that could be used to treat burns. She then brought the medicine over to the restaurant.

Doctor Gu’s medicine was indeed effective. Overnight, Chang Huan’s burns were neither red nor swollen. Su Jiu gave him the medicine again.

Chang Huan put on his clothes, contemplated for a moment and said abruptly, “Boss, please leave the Ji Manor!”

Su Jiu was startled. “Why?”

“We initially entered the Ji Manor because there wasn’t anything to eat at Yuhu Mountain. Now that we are no longer short of food, you should come back too! It’s too dangerous at the Ji Manor. Don’t be their Young Mistress anymore!”

Su Jiu had her head down as she arranged the medicine. She replied faintly, “I already agreed to work together with Ji Yuxian. He had helped us, but I haven’t. Let’s wait for a little while more so that I can find the chance to repay him!”

“Boss…”

Chang Huan intended to advise Su Jiu further, but she interrupted him. “I have my thoughts on this matter. There’s no need to say anything further, just heal yourself first!”

Chang Huan’s eyes dimmed. He looked up, attempting to appear nonchalant, and said, “Boss, just be careful.”

“Don’t worry!” Su Jiu chuckled as she patted Chang Huan’s shoulders.

Chang Huan nodded and later called a young shop boy in. He said to Su Jiu, “I’ll have to man the restaurant. If there’s no one to drive you, take this kid with you. He has been with us since the beginning of this business. He is honest and trustworthy.”

The youngster was about 14 to 15 years old. He had a clean appearance and looked intelligent. After hearing Chang Huan’s words, he immediately replied respectfully, “I’ll do my best to serve you!”

Su Jiu smiled. “Alright, just follow me in the future! What’s your name?”

“My name is Zhang Xiaomao. You can call me Er Mao!”

“Ok, Er Mao!”

The restaurant was busy, so Su Jiu let Chang Huan greet the customers as she left the restaurant.

“Master, where are we going?” Er Mao asked as he brought the horse carriage over.

The weather was amazing and spring was in full bloom. It felt warm and cozy.

“Let’s head to the Qinglong bodyguard agency!” Su Jiu remembered that she had not been there for two days. She sat in the carriage and led Er Mao the way.

At this moment, a soldier riding a horse barged through the crowd abruptly. He shouted, “Give way!” The pedestrians on the road hurriedly moved aside and the man on the horse soon disappeared quickly.

Su Jiu asked curiously, “What happened?”

Er Mao replied, “It seems to be an urgent matter. The frontiers may be battling again!”

The frontier battles had nothing to do with the commoners. The masses discussed for some time and they went separate ways soon after.

Er Mao rode the carriage and brought Su Jiu to the bodyguard agency at a town in the East.

Xieyang Street, the Bai family’s martial arts dojo.

One of the courtyards in the back that was facing east, was where the Third Lady lived. The brothers of the Bai family were involved in illegal activities in Xieyang street and were arrogant people as well. No one dared to offend them, but the most overbearing person in the Bai family was the Third Lady.

Bai Sanjin had a black and gold whip made of iron. They were covered with barbs and if it used on anyone, their skin would tear even if they did not die. The Third Lady was temperamental and moody. She even angered her mother to the point of her death. Everyone was afraid of the Bai family.

It was just past noon. A servant girl was rushing into the bedroom, and as she was about to push the door open, she heard a burst of sensational moans from a woman in the room. They were completely unembarrassed as if wanting everyone in the courtyard to hear them.

The servant girl was aloof and there were no signs of awkwardness on her face. She knocked on the door and said, “Third Lady, there’s a woman outside. She claims to be the wife of Chen Lin and she is crying now, saying that she wants to look for her husband.”

The shrieking sounds in the room stopped instantly. The woman who was humping the man in the room revealed a tender expression. Her sweat dripped onto the man’s large and naked body, and she touched his face as he leaned against the bed. Her voice was rough as she said, “Your wife is here to look for you!”

The man had fair skin and looked attractive. His eyes narrowed in confusion, but he laughed crudely and said, “Just chase her away so that she does not disturb us and spoil the mood!”

He kissed the Third Lady’s lips after speaking.

However, Bai Sanjin lifted her legs and kicked him away. She put on a robe and the enchantment he previously had on her disappeared. She said coldly, “Tell her. Ask her to leave and don’t let her bother you again!”

“Alright, alright! I’ll tell her right away!” The man’s figure was lanky. He responded respectfully as he put on his blue robe.

Bai Sanjin did not tidy her hair up and opened the door right away. She called out to the servant girl who was standing outside the door. “Go on, bring the woman over!”

“Yes!” The servant girl responded.